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Does ezetimibe lower triglycerides?

Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on July 21, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Yes, ezetimibe does lower triglyceride levels.

In an analysis of eight clinical trials comparing ezetimibe 10mg daily to a placebo, the patients on ezetimibe had a reduction in triglycerides of 8%. This was a randomized placebo placebo-controlled study with 2700 patients and lasted 12 weeks.

The results also showed:

For a more effective reduction in triglyceride levels, ezetimibe can be taken with simvastatin. The VYTAL trial showed that when ezetimibe 10mg is taken with simvastatin 20mg, there was a greater reduction in triglycerides compared to a 10mg dose of atorvastatin.

Bottom line:

References

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Does Zetia (ezetimibe) cause memory loss?

Memory loss is not a side effect of Zetia (ezetimibe) when it is used alone to treat high cholesterol. Zetia is often used with diet and other cholesterol lowering medications like statins which have been linked with cognitive impairment (memory loss, forgetfulness, or confusion). Continue reading

Can Zetia (ezetimibe) cause liver damage?

Yes, Zetia (ezetimibe) can cause liver damage and hepatotoxicity, although serious liver injury is very rare. Healthcare providers should monitor liver enzymes regularly for signs of drug-induced liver injury and toxic hepatitis, and consider ezetimibe discontinuation if liver damage develops. Your healthcare provider should perform baseline liver function tests just before starting ezetimibe treatment and conduct regular liver monitoring thereafter.

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How does Zetia (ezetimibe) work to lower cholesterol?

It reduces cholesterol absorption from the small intestine so there is less cholesterol delivered to the liver. This means there is a lower amount of cholesterol stored in the liver, which leads to more cholesterol being cleared from the blood.

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